BENTON, Ky. (Jan. 3, 2024) – Major League Fishing (MLF) has unveiled a new lock box, designed and manufactured by Precision Sonar, that will support new rules limiting anglers to the use of two forward-facing or 360-degree sonar transducers during competition. The innovative, simple-to-use device will be provided free to all anglers who need to lock out excess transducers during competition.
Link to Video demonstrating use of Lock Box from Precision Sonar
The lock box provides an effective solution to temporarily disable and secure excess transducers on tournament boats, thus maintaining a fair and level playing field under new MLF rules that allow anglers to utilize the fish-catching power of forward-facing and 360-degree sonar while also preserving the traditional fishing techniques enjoyed by millions of anglers and fans.
Anglers with more than two forward-facing or 360-degree sonar transducers on their boats will be required to:
- Disclose their setup and need for the device to the tournament director at or immediately following the pre-tournament meeting.
- Obtain a lock box from MLF staff prior to the tournament at the Precision Sonar Lock Station and install the device prior to boat launch – a quick and straightforward process that ensures excess transducers are disconnected and cable plugs are securely capped with the high-visibility lock box provided.
- Make a quick stop by the Precision Sonar Lock Station at the end of the competition day to have the device unlocked by MLF staff.
“We’re excited to debut this solution as part of our efforts to implement a new rule in a way that is both seamless for anglers and effective for our tournaments,” said Boyd Duckett, MLF President and CEO. “The new rules and lock box enforcement device reflect our commitment to fairness while embracing innovative sonar technologies as part of the sport.”
Forward-facing and 360-degree sonar technologies are powerful tools, and the new MLF rules ensure they can be used effectively without overshadowing traditional fishing techniques.
“This rule isn’t about limiting innovation—it’s about enhancing competition and creating more opportunity for strategic angling,” Duckett said. “The lock box allows us to enforce the rule consistently, so all participants can compete under the same conditions while still leveraging the power of modern sonar technology.”
The updated rules and limitations for the 2025 season vary by circuit to ensure they satisfy the majority of MLF stakeholders while considering the different levels of competition, formats and tournament dynamics of each circuit. Anglers will work with the tournament director at each event to obtain a lock box, as needed, and can look forward to a streamlined process for compliance, ensuring that tournaments remain exciting, fair and true to the spirit of bass fishing.
For a link to FAQ pages for each circuit – including the enforcement, penalties, technical questions and contact information for each Tournament Director – click the links below. Tournament Directors for each circuit are available to answer additional questions from competitors not covered in the FAQ.
Bass Pro Tour FAQ
Tackle Warehouse Invitationals FAQ
Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats FAQ
Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine FAQ
Abu Garcia College Fishing Presented by YETI FAQ
Abu Garcia High School Fishing Presented by Tackle Warehouse FAQ
The lock box from Precision Sonar will debut at the first Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) event of the season – the Cowboy division opener at Sam Rayburn Reservoir on Sat., Jan. 4, and will roll out during the opening tournament of each MLF circuit in 2025.
For more information on the lock box, tournament rules and upcoming events, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.
